Parks director back where he started

PALOS HEIGHTS — The new director of parks and recreation in Palos Heights is returning to his roots.

The City Council this week approved the appointment of Mike Leonard, who began his career as the department's athletic director.

The position has been open since July 7 when Mark Purcell left the job he had held since 1989 to work for the Buehler YMCA in Palatine.

"We're pretty fortunate to get Mike Leonard," said Jeff Prestinario, chairman of the city's Recreation Committee and a member of the search committee for the position. "He's a very hard worker, very sincere.

"He has the experience and has seen a number of different park districts and recreation departments, so he will be able to bring different ideas here to Palos Heights."

Leonard, a Lemont resident, also has worked for districts in Palos Hills, Channahon and Lemont.

Leonard holds a masters of science degree in recreation, park and tourism administration from Western Illinois University and is a certified parks and recreation professional and aquatic facility operator.

His new job starts Oct. 18 at a salary of about $68,000.

The city received about 40 applications and conducted 10 interviews, officials said.